Ganesh Chaturthi is one of the prominent festivals of India that is celebrated by the masses. The occasion is celebrated to mark the birth of Lord Ganesha and is observed on the fourth day of Bhadrapada month. It is believed that the Lord actually visits Earth to bestow his choicest blessings. His worship also helps to overcome obstacles and bring in fortune. Oil lamps are used along with flowers to welcome Him to the house.

To attain His blessings and happiness, you need the following essentials -

• An idol of Lord Ganesha. An eco-friendly one is recommended to ensure that the celebrations do not take a toll on the environment.
• Sandalwood paste
• Hibiscus or any other red flowers
• Modaks - the favourite sweets of Lord Ganesha
• Fruits
• Incense stick
• Durva grass
• An elevated platform to place the idol
• Earthen diyas or sophisticated oil lamps

Preparing for Ganesh Utsav Before bringing in the idol of Lord Ganesha, it is recommended to follow the necessary steps after taking a bath. Also, you must take the help of friends and family to make the occasion special -

• Decorate the Ganesha mandap using coconut, banana or Ashoka leaves
• Fill a pot with water and rice. Install it near the Ganesha idol after chanting " Ganeshay Namah
• Light oil lamp and offer Aarti to Lord Ganesha.

Prepping your home decor for welcoming Ganesha

1.The Lighting effect

Fairy lights

One of the easiest DIY hacks for home decor this festive season is to use lots of fairy lights. You can light up the entryway using subtle string lights, elegant handmade lamp shades, etc.

All this adds a warm glow to your interiors and helps to set up the mood for prayers.

The accent lights

Place focus lights to brighten up the area around the idol. This idea works well for both larger and smaller rooms.

Mood lighting

If oil lamps for home decor seem too much for you, then choose mood lights. These can be dimmed or enhanced as per your requirement.

False ceiling lights

Choosing a false ceiling panel around the Pooja room is a good idea. Adding the right lights will keep your Ganesha idol in the spotlight. Similarly, you can install decorative lights to cast stylish patterns, add elements of interest and capture the attention of all.

Scented candles

Opt for a lot of scented candles and place these around the idol. You can also place these around the idols to get a warm glow. Similarly, you can invest in decorative holders and bases to get a dreamy look.

2. The back to basics

Bronze Oil lamps

If you wish to add a mesmerising effect to your festive celebrations, then you need to opt for designer oil lamps along with diwali diyas. These are available in artistic shapes, and some can even carry the image of Lord Ganesha. Depending on your budget, you can choose from a simple bronze oil lamp to one carrying intricate patterns.

Earthen Oil Lamps or Diyas

Diwali Diyas are a great way to celebrate this festive season. These are auspicious and spiritual symbols that help to light up your home. The light of the lamp, when combined with Rangoli, can bring positive energy to your household.

The South Indian beauties

Most of the top oil lamps for home decor are often procured from the southern states. These lamps carry designs that are both spiritual and artistic wonders. These lamps are available in the shape of flowers, peacocks, Lakshmi, Lotus, etc. Thus post the festivities, these can help you enhance your room decor or be placed in the balcony for that perfect result. These beautiful lamps are the best choice for gifting at weddings and life events.

The hanging lamps

Hanging brass lamps are another form of versatile oil lamp for home decor. You get to choose from vintage to modern styles that fit well with all forms of home decor. These can be added as wall decoration or simply hung from the ceiling.

3. The home decor genius hacks

Crystals and beads

Use a lot of crystals and beads to amp up your home decor. If you are using oil lamps, then choosing to hang these or opting for crystal chandeliers can help to reflect the light.

Mirrors

To add natural light and to make your Pooja room appear larger, it is important to opt for mirrors on the wall.

Add lots of greens

For an evergreen decoration, it is recommended to opt for indoor plants to enhance your home decor. Alternatively, you can make garlands of marigolds and hibiscus to decorate the area around the idol.

The origami art

You can get creative with your family and engage kids in the festivities using origami.

Choose from simple decor ideas like swans, butterflies, flowers and umbrellas. You can even add beads and make them appear stylish.

Thermocol wall art

You can create flowers and other decorative items using a thermocol. Simply cut these in the desired shape and create a stunning look by painting these in vibrant shades!

4. The mandap decor ideas

Florals for backdrop

Add to the beauty of your Ganpati decoration using drapes. Use old sarees and then place these around the background. Use flowers to enhance the same.

The classic mandap

If you love marigolds, then use the strings to decorate the background.

To enhance the decor, further, opt for a white satin curtain to ensure that the entire space appears amazing and fun.

You can also opt for a combination of yellow, and white sheer curtains to bring a dreamy appeal.

White roses

When the budget is not a constraint, choose from white roses, orchids and other exotic flowers to create a background.

This brings a sense of freshness to the area, and one gets treated to a natural scene. Choosing the idea can enhance the decor and style quotient of a simple room.

Yellow backdrop

Yellow is a colour of prosperity, and adding loads of yellow decorations to the background is a good idea. Opt for net dupattas in yellow to enhance creativity and positivity.

Bring in Jasmine flowers and combine these with the above to get a warm and scented background for your idol.